Rice with hearts and gizzards

Rice with Hearts and Gizzards - A Comfort Food Recipe with Traditional Roots

If you desire a hearty meal full of flavors and nostalgia, the Rice with Hearts and Gizzards recipe is the perfect choice. This recipe, often found in family kitchens, combines the rich taste of chicken organs with the fluffy texture of rice, creating a comforting and nourishing dish. It is a simple recipe, but definitely delicious and full of character.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g chicken hearts and gizzards
- 1 cup round grain rice (preferably)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably a colorful one for added beauty)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Organs: Start by cleaning the chicken hearts and gizzards. It is important to wash them well under cold running water and remove any impurities. After cleaning, blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then drain. This step not only improves the texture but also helps reduce the strong smell.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a deep skillet or pot, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Chop the onion finely and add it to the hot oil. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Cook the Organs: Once the vegetables have softened, add the chicken hearts and gizzards. Mix well and let them sauté with the vegetables for 5 minutes. Then, add the 4 cups of water, salt, and pepper to taste. Wait for it to boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the Rice: After the organs have boiled, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice to the pot and mix well. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the rice absorbs all the water and becomes fluffy.

5. Finish the Dish: Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley. Mix well and let it rest for 5 minutes under the lid to enhance the flavors.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the Rice: Round grain rice is ideal for this recipe as it absorbs liquids well and becomes fluffy. If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, you can use basmati or jasmine rice, but the cooking time may vary.

- Vegetable Variation: If you want to enrich the dish, you can add vegetables like peas or green beans for a contrast of texture and color.

- Serving: Rice with hearts and gizzards pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or assorted pickles. A glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement this dish.

Nutritional Information:

This recipe is a good source of protein due to the chicken organs and is rich in vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. A serving offers approximately 400 calories, making it a nourishing choice for a main meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other organs? Certainly! You can experiment with chicken liver or other types of meat, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I store leftovers? It is advisable to keep the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can be consumed within the next 2-3 days.

3. Can I freeze the dish? Yes, you can freeze the rice with hearts and gizzards. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in freezer bags.

Conclusion:

Rice with hearts and gizzards is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can quickly become your favorite. It combines the ingredients in a way that highlights their natural flavors, offering a dish that everyone will love. Don't hesitate to try other variations of this recipe by adding ingredients you enjoy, and each meal will be a new culinary adventure!